What happens after a crime is reported?

As a victim, what support am I entitled to?

The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime forms a key part of the wider Government strategy to transform the criminal justice system by putting victims first, making the system more responsive and easier to navigate. Victims of crime should be treated in a respectful, sensitive and professional manner without discrimination of any kind.

They should receive appropriate support to help them, as far as possible, to cope and recover and be protected from re-victimisation. It is important that victims of crime know what information and support is available to them from reporting a crime onwards and who to request help from if they are not getting it.

Victims' Right to Review

The CPS has launched a new initiative called the Victims' Right to Review Scheme which makes it easier for victims to seek a review of a CPS decision not to bring charges or to terminate proceedings. Victims will be able to seek a review of decisions not to charge, to discontinue or otherwise terminate proceedings. Under this scheme victims can seek a review of the following CPS decisions:

Not to charge

To discontinue (or withdraw in the Magistrates' Court) all charges

Offer no evidence.

Please note that the scheme applies only in relation to qualifying decisions made on or after the 5 June 2013.